The Tale of Genji

Catalog note / 解説

This 'uchiwa-e' (rigid fan print) design by Hiroshige is from a series of scenes from classical literature. However, Hiroshige put them into contemporary settings. This print illustrates the Akashi chapter of <i>The Tale of Genji</i> (early 11th century). The text in the cartouche explains that Murasaki Shikibu wrote the tale while in seclusion at the Ishiyama Temple. She started to write on the 15th day of the eighth month, when her mind was as clear as the August moon reflected on Lake Biwa. Here you can see Prince Genji dressed in elaborate robes and sitting in a boat. The indeterminate background is typical of Hiroshige's work. The artist has depicted him with a small peak of hair just…